Juanita Linda Barnes

Juanita Linda Barnes, wife, mother, grandmother and friend passed away on August 4, 2024 after a courageous battle with cancer.
Juanita was born on May 23, 1937 in Lamar South Carolina to Aida and Christopher Smalls. She was raised in Harlem New York before relocating to the Bronx New York to raise her family.
In 1953, Juanita married Bobby Barnes in Harlem New York. Juanita and Bobby went on to have three children before he passed away; Michael H. Barnes, Robert A. Barnes, and Richard A. Barnes. After his passing she later expanded and completed their family with two additional children Charles Barnes and Darryl Barnes.
Juanita graduated from Julia Richman High School in 1957. In the late 60's Early 70's Juanita worked with Mayor John V. Lindsey during his campaigns and assisted with the implementation of play streets in inner city neighborhoods. Play Streets were an effort to create outdoor play space for children in urban neighborhoods. She went on to receive her masters in Social Work at Borough of Manhattan Community College.
After graduating in 1997 she worked as a licensed Social Worker for HRA and Volunteers of America. In her later years she worked as a member of the community renewal team, and as a Senior Service Aid.
Juanita retired and spent her time in Hartford Connecticut, with friends and family. She enjoyed attending events in her senior community, crafting, and updates on her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Juanita was predeceased by her husband Bobby Barnes, her sons; Robert A. Barnes and Michael H. Barnes, her daughter-inlaw; Kisha Barnes and grandsons; Saleek Dukes Barnes and Prince Stoney, her brothers; Sam Smalls and Thomas Smalls.
She is survived by her Sisters; Martha Smalls and Georgi Smalls, her nephew; Reggie Smalls, her sons; Richard A. Barnes and his wife Cynthia Smith, Charles Barnes, and Darryl Barnes. Her grandchildren; Deasia Dukes, Michael K. Barnes Lloyd, Shante Simms, Richard Barnes Jr., Ernest Barnes, Soloman Barnes, Genesis Barnes, Hajja Barnes, Malachi Barnes, Sari Arrowo, Ariel De Vougas, and Javon Rogers and great grandchildren; Quanasia Wheeler, Princess Stoney, Aubrey Rodriguez, Ethan N.B Simms, Abigail C. Simms, Liam I. Simms, Jasani Barnes, Quincy Barnes and Kaleo Barnes.